The long-standing problem of traffic congestion in Dhaka has hindered local development. The local economic committee has finalized multiple rail transit projects at once, including stalled projects that have been restarted and adjusted, as well as new routes that have been launched, opening up new opportunities for upgrading the urban transportation network.

Implementation of project list

On September 16, 2026, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council of Bangladesh (ECNEC) approved 12 projects, including 3 subway projects, with a total investment of nearly 2.5 trillion taka, equivalent to 20.174 billion US dollars. Two Japanese JICA financing projects have adjusted their investment plans. The Dhaka Metro Line 1 has a total length of 31.24 kilometers and a total investment of 1.14 trillion taka, approximately 9.24 billion US dollars. It is expected to be completed by 2033. The North Line of Dhaka Metro Line 5 is 20 kilometers long, with a total investment of 898.484 billion taka, equivalent to 7.258 billion US dollars. The newly approved South Line of Dhaka Metro Line 5 has a total length of 17.2 kilometers and a total investment of approximately 455.03 billion taka, equivalent to 3.676 billion US dollars. It is funded by loans from the Asian Development Bank and South Korea and is scheduled to be completed in August 2033.

Analyze the causes of cost

The relevant departments explain that the high cost of Japanese financing projects is due to multiple factors such as international standard designated suppliers and contractors, as well as changes in the international economic environment that have also raised financing costs. Keywords: Bangladesh Metro, Dhaka Rail Transit

The meeting also approved the Narayanganjeda Kachoyidebur electrified commuter railway project, with a total investment of approximately 38.2251 billion taka or 310 million US dollars. This batch of rail transit projects will improve the public transportation system in Dhaka and alleviate commuting pressure in the city.Editor/Min Jing